Melbourne has closed the books on the inaugural Australian editions of Data Center World and the AI Summit with numbers strong enough to secure their return in 2027.
The co-located events, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, drew 1,850 delegates and generated an estimated $8.2 million in economic contribution — a debut organisers are calling proof of Victoria’s standing as a serious player in technology-focused business events. Keynote speakers included representatives from the Australian Department of Defence, Mercedes-Benz, DHL, and Amazon Web Services, addressing a program that spanned artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, sustainability, cybersecurity, investment, and workforce development, alongside technical tours of Victoria’s expanding infrastructure network.
“The success of Data Center World Australia and the AI Summit in 2026 demonstrated Melbourne’s ability to bring together global leaders, innovators and industry experts to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping our digital future,” said Julia Swanson, CEO of Melbourne Convention Bureau. “We are delighted to welcome both events back to Melbourne in 2027 and look forward to building on this momentum.”
For organisers Informa, the return confirms a bet on the region’s momentum. “We’re thrilled to be returning to Melbourne for the second year of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia,” said Marco Pardi, President, Tech Events at Informa Connect. “The 2027 edition will deepen our commitment to fostering innovation at scale, connecting global expertise with Australia’s rapidly expanding digital infrastructure landscape.”
Spiro Anemogiannis, Managing Director of Informa Australia, framed the decision as a reflection of the market itself: “Australia is at a pivotal moment in its digital infrastructure journey, and we’re proud to provide the platform where industry leaders, innovators, and solution providers come together to shape the future.”